Ruben Amorim says Manchester United have a “bigger problem” than their city rivals this season ahead of this weekend's Manchester derby.
United make the short trip across town to the Etihad Stadium on Sunday where they take on a Manchester City side who have won just one of their last ten matches in all competitions.
The Red Devils are looking to return to the English Premier League after defeat at Old Trafford last weekend against Nottingham Forest.
Amorim came from behind on Thursday to defeat Viktoria Plzeň in the Europa League, thanks to two second-half goals from Rasmus Hoglund.
It's derby day 🔵⚔️🔴#MUFC || #MCIMUN
– Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 15, 2024
But despite City's poor recent results, Amorim believes Pep Guardiola's side still pose a threat and admits United's problems are bigger than those of their neighbours.
“They (City) are a very strong team and have worked together for many years,” Amorim told Sky Sports.
“They've won a lot but they've also lost a lot. But they're very good at what they do. They can change that momentum at any time.”
“We have a bigger problem because we are working on simple things but we want to win like Manchester City.
“It's not a game where the two teams are experiencing the greatest moment of the season, but it's always a derby and we want to win it.”
Ahead of the match, the United manager also said he was looking forward to seeing how his players responded to the challenge.
“We have a lot to do,” Amorim said. “Not just in the game, but in everything else.”
“The way we play. I'm excited to see how our players behave in this situation and this type of match.
It's Manchester derby day! 🍿👀
Who do you support? 👇 pic.twitter.com/jCcMrl3Cgx
– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 15, 2024
The match will also be Amorim's first full month in charge of United. So far under the leadership of the Portuguese coach, the team has played six matches, winning three of them.
Amorim stressed the need to be patient while the team adapts its methods.
“This should be like pre-season, where I get to know my players but we do it in competition,” Amorim added.
“You always have surprises. You have an idea of the player and you have a surprise or two in good and bad ways.
“I already know that it is a big task, and it will take time. Forget me as a coach, the club needs time. This is an important thing that everyone must understand and we have to focus on every detail. Not only the result, we want to win but we have to improve a lot.”